Differences Between High and Low Motorcycle Ground Clearance

When you are shopping for a motorcycle, there are many things you’ll need to consider before you make the purchase. One factor many riders have to decide on is the amount of ground clearance they need. Our team at Riverside County Indian Motorcycle® is here to help you throughout the buying process, so we’ve put together a brief guide for understanding the different ground clearances. 

What is Ground Clearance?

Ground clearance is defined as the space between the ground and the bottom of the vehicle. Typically this is measured in millimeters and has a direct effect on how the motorcycle performs in different scenarios. 

Low Ground Clearance

Certain models are designed to have a lower ground clearance, such as cruisers and touring bikes. The lower clearance creates a lower center of gravity, helping the rider balance and have an easier time controlling the motorcycle. Less air is able to pass beneath the bike as well, so there is a lot less resistance during travel. 

High Ground Clearance

A higher ground clearance offers more opportunities for exploring rough terrains. Dirt bikes and adventure models are great examples of motorcycles that are designed with a high ground clearance. They are built to overcome different obstacles and tend to have a more durable suspension, making the ride smoother overall. 

No matter which level of ground clearance is right for you, our team would love to have you visit us in Corona, CA, to view our selection. We proudly serve Huntington Beach and Temecula.